After weeks of hard work and negotiations throughout June and July, Pennsylvania has a new state budget. While no budget is ever perfect, this one represents real progress and reminds us that when we work together, we can make a difference for families across our Commonwealth.

One of our biggest accomplishments was protecting the Commonwealth's Rainy-Day Fund without raising taxes. That shows we can be responsible with taxpayer dollars while still investing in the people and communities we serve.

This budget also makes important investments in education. It increases funding for our public schools, expands BOOST grants for after-school programs, and creates more opportunities for students to explore career and technical education. Every child deserves the chance to learn, grow, and succeed, and these investments help move us in that direction.

We also secured funding for programs and improvements that help people every day, including mental health services, rape crisis and prevention centers, the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP), and new chip-enabled SNAP/EBT cards to better protect families from fraud. These investments strengthen our communities and provide support when people need it most.

There is still more work ahead. Too many families continue to struggle with rising costs, unaffordable housing, healthcare deserts, and wages that have not kept up with the cost of living. We cannot stop pushing for solutions that make Pennsylvania a place where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

Progress doesn't happen overnight. It happens when we listen, work together, and never lose sight of the people we serve. This budget is another step forward, and I remain committed to building a stronger, more affordable, and more hopeful future for every Pennsylvanian.

A new chapter is beginning for one of Jenkintown's most beloved community spaces. Construction is underway on Legacy Park, a reimagined playground behind Jenkintown Elementary School that will feature slides, swings, climbing structures, a toddler play area, and an outdoor performance space. The first phase is expected to be completed in time for the start of the school year, with the theater area opening later this fall.

I was proud to support this project because Jenkintown School District is more than just schools, it's a community gathering place. As I shared with The Philadelphia Inquirer, "Jenkintown School District has an outsized impact on the community around it. Its grounds are open to all, Jenkintown residents and non-residents alike."

Once complete, Legacy Park will continue that tradition by welcoming families to enjoy the playground outside of school hours, creating a vibrant space for children and neighbors to gather for years to come.

?? You've been asking... and it's finally back! ??

I'm excited to announce that my Annual Senior Fair is returning by popular demand!

?? Thursday, September 24, 2026
?? 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
?? Reform Congregation Keneseth Israel
8339 Old York Road, Elkins Park

This FREE event brings together exhibitors from federal, state, and local agencies, health care providers, and nonprofit organizations—all in one place! Whether you're looking for helpful resources, information about services, health and wellness tips, or just a chance to connect with others in the community, there's something for everyone.

Come learn, ask questions, meet local organizations, and discover programs designed to help older adults live healthier, safer, and more connected lives.

Please register in advance for yourself and any guests so we can plan for everyone and make sure we have enough space and materials for attendees.

I always look forward to this event, and I hope you'll join us for a fun, informative, and welcoming day. I can't wait to see you there!

PennDOT is hiring for a variety of maintenance positions in Montgomery County, and your next career could make a real difference in our community. Maintenance crews play a critical role in repairing roads, clearing snow, maintaining bridges, and keeping Pennsylvania's transportation network safe and reliable. Filling these positions means faster repairs, better-maintained roads, and safer travel for everyone.

Join PennDOT's Montgomery County Job Fair on Saturday, July 18, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Montgomery County Maintenance Office in Norristown. On-the-spot interviews may be available, and there are opportunities for career advancement and excellent benefits. 

You can apply today here. 

Are you or someone you know a first-time student planning on community college or trade school? Get your FAFSA in by August 1 to be considered for a 2026-27 PA State Grant.

Apply here.

Students who already submitted their FAFSA® and completed the PA State Grant process may now be able to view a provisional PA State Grant award in GrantUs.

While final eligibility and award amounts are determined later, reviewing your provisional award can help give you an early look at anticipated financial aid amounts for the upcoming academic year.

Sign in and review your status at grantus.pheaa.org.

?? Spend the afternoon in Historic La Mott! ??

Come on out on Saturday, August 15, from 1:00–4:00 p.m. for a fun-filled community celebration in Historic La Mott—rain or shine!

Bring your family, friends, and neighbors and enjoy an afternoon of:
?? Delicious food
?? Great company and community spirit

Whether you're a longtime resident or visiting for the first time, this is a wonderful opportunity to experience the rich history and welcoming atmosphere of La Mott while connecting with friends old and new.

We can't wait to see you there!

Older adults are increasingly targeted by scams such as phishing emails, impersonation schemes, and financial fraud.

Join the Pennsylvania Office of Homeland Security and the Pennsylvania Attorney General's Office for a free virtual workshop featuring experts who will share practical tips on recognizing scams, protecting your personal and financial information, and knowing what to do if you become a victim.

The workshop is ideal for older adults, caregivers, family members, and anyone who supports seniors.

Online event

The webinar will begin promptly at 1:00 p.m. and conclude at 4:00 p.m. and will be hosted on Microsoft Teams. 

All registered participants will receive an email with the Teams link and joining instructions within two (2) days before the webinar.

As we enter the dog days of summer, please be aware of these laws that protect animals in hot weather.

To report an animal left out in the heat, you can call the Pennsylvania SPCA Animal Cruelty Hotline at 866-601-7722 or submit the concern online here.

Looking for something fun (and adorable) to do this summer? Foster or adopt a kitten… or maybe even two! 

?? Meet the Fire Litter! A volunteer trapped a neighborhood feral cat, planning to have her spayed through a TNVR program. The cat had other plans and gave birth to a litter of kittens just two days before her appointment! ??

Mom stayed with her babies until they were old enough, then she was spayed, vaccinated, and returned to the area she calls home, where she is fed and cared for every day.

These kittens are now thriving! They’re social, playful, affectionate, and will never know life outdoors. ??

?? Five babies are still looking for foster or adoptive families. They are active, playful and silly young kittens that have been socialized with kids and other animals. It’s kitten season so help is needed! Could one (or two!) of these adorable kittens be the perfect addition to your family? Even opening your home as a foster helps save lives and makes room for the next animal in need.

There’s estimated to be about 400,000 ?? stray cats living on the streets of Philadelphia and many of them are friendly cats or kittens begging for love. Once these kittens find placement, we will be able to bring more kittens inside off the streets. ??

Apply here to foster or adopt.

Harrisburg Office

325 Irvis Office Building

PO Box 202154

Harrisburg, PA 17120
(717) 783-1079

Glenside Office

115 East Glenside Avenue

Suite 8
Glenside, PA 19038
(215) 572-5210

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